EP3079996A2

EP3079996A2 - Packaging

Info

Publication number: EP3079996A2
Application number: EP14831068.3A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Christopher Holt
Original assignee: Kraft Foods R&D Inc USA
Current assignee: Kraft Foods R&D Inc USA
Priority date: 2013-12-09
Filing date: 2014-12-05
Publication date: 2016-10-19
Also published as: WO2015087158A3; GB2521008A; AR098628A1; AU2014363146A1; CN105745154A; CA2925023A1; WO2015087158A2; GB201321696D0

Abstract

A reconfigurable packaging carton (12) has a plurality of interconnected hollow prismatic carton sections (14) for receiving product (92). Each carton section is connected with two further of the carton sections by means of respective hinges such that the configuration of the carton sections can be varied by pivoting interconnected pairs of the carton sections about a common hinge. Each carton section (14) has at least one aperture at one end and may be open a both ends to define a sleeve into which a product piece is directly received. The carton sections (14) can be of different shapes. The carton (12) is formed from a blank of foldable material and several blanks for forming the carton are also disclosed.

Description

Packaging

Technical Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to packaging and in particular, but not exclusively, to packaging for comestible items such as food products, including food snacks and confectionery.

Background to the Invention

Packaging for products serves a number of functions. Its primary function is usually to protect the product but it can also be used to carry information, for example regarding the product and/or the manufacturer. In some cases, a major function of packaging is to be attractive to the customer. Attractiveness may take the form of simple visual attractiveness in appealing to a potential purchaser of the product. This aspect is particularly important for products that are often purchased on impulse, such as confectionery or other snack type food products, where it is desirable to make a product stand out from other similar products in a crowded sales area. Where products are intended to be given as a treat or gift, it is known to add novel and or usual features to packaging that are intended to add to the overall experience of the end user in receiving and using the gift and which it is hoped will appeal to potential purchasers. Packaging then can play a key role in attracting potential customers and much attention is directed to producing packages that stand out. In terms of a packaging' s visual attractiveness, this may result from the shape of the packaging itself and/or from graphical designs applied to the packaging. There is a desire then to produce packaging which not only protects the product but which has novel features that are potentially interesting and attractive to end consumers and/or purchasers.

There is a particular desire to provide reconfigurable packaging which is both visually and physically stimulating.

Summary of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a reconfigurable packaging carton comprising a plurality of interconnected hollow prismatic carton sections for receiving product, each carton section being connected with two further of the carton sections by means of respective hinges such that the configuration of the carton sections can be varied by pivoting interconnected pairs of the carton sections about a common hinge, each carton section having at least one aperture at one end.

Each carton section may have an aperture at either of two opposed ends, so as to define a sleeve for receiving product. The carton sections may be polygonal in cross-section or may have the shape of a sector of a circle in cross-section.

The carton sections may be non-parallelepiped.

The carton sections may combine to define a prism.

The carton sections may have the shape of a quadrant of a circle in cross- section and may combine to define a cylindrical prism in a primary configuration.

The carton sections may be triangular prisms and may combine to define a triangular prism in a primary configuration. The carton may be formed from a single blank of foldable material.

Product pieces may be located in some or all of the carton sections. The product pieces may be directly received and retained within their respective carton sections and may be wrapped or unwrapped. The product pieces may be frictionally retained within their respective carton sections. The product pieces may be bonded to an inner surface of their respective carton sections for retention.

The product pieces may be confectionery pieces such as chocolate.

At least one graphic (e.g. a symbol, text, letter, icon, image or the like) may be associated with at least two or more of the carton sections, the arrangement being such that in at least one configuration of the carton sections, graphics associated with at least two of the carton sections correspond to form a combined graphic. The carton may be configured so that graphics associated with the carton sections combine in different ways in at least two configurations of the carton sections to define a series of different combined graphics. The at least one graphic associated with any given carton section may be provided on a wall of the carton section and/or on an exposed portion of the wrapper of a wrapped product piece retained in the carton section.

In accordance with a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a reconfigurable packaging carton as hereinbefore described, with reference to and as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In accordance with a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a blank of foldable material for forming a reconfigurable packaging carton comprising a plurality of interconnected hollow prismatic carton sections for receiving product, each carton section being connected with two further of the carton sections by means of respective hinges such that the configuration of the carton sections can be varied by pivoting interconnected pairs of the carton sections about a common hinge, each carton section having at least one aperture and one end; the blank comprising a sheet of material divided into four rows by means of a plurality of equi-spaced horizontal crease lines, the rows being referred to as first, second, third, and fourth rows counting from an upper edge to a lower edge of the sheet, the sheet also being divided into at least six columns by means of a plurality of vertical crease lines, the vertical crease lines including a central vertical crease line dividing the sheet into two halves, the remaining vertical crease lines being spaced either side of the central vertical crease line so that the vertical crease lines in one half are a mirror image of the vertical crease lines in the other half, the vertical and horizontal crease lines defining at least first, second, and third panel portions on either side of the central vertical crease line in each row, the panel portions being numbered outwardly from the central vertical crease line, the sheet also comprising a tab at either end of each row, each tab being connected with the an outer edge of the outermost panel portion on its respective side of the sheet by means of a vertical fold line.

One or more cuts may extend along the central vertical cease between the first panel portions in two of the rows to enable the first panel portions in each of said two rows to be separated from one another, the first panel portions in each of the other two of the rows being interconnected by means of a foldable hinge.

In an embodiment, a cut extends long the central vertical crease to enable separation of the first panel portions in each of the second and third rows from one another, the first panel portions in each of the first and fourth rows being interconnected with one another by means of a foldable hinge. In an embodiment a cut extends long the central vertical crease to enable separation of the first panel portions in each of the second and third rows from one another, the first panel portions in each of the first and fourth rows being interconnected with one another by means of a foldable hinge and the second panel portions on either side of the central vertical crease line in the first row are each connected by means of a foldable hinge with the corresponding second panel portion in the second row. the hinges being defined by a first horizontal crease line between the first and second rows, the remaining panel portions in the first row being seperable from the panel portions in the second row by means of cuts extending along the first horizontal crease line; the first panel portions on either side of the central vertical crease line in the second row are each connected by means of a foldable hinge with the corresponding first panel portion in the third row, the foldable hinges being defined by a second horizontal crease line between the second and third rows; the remaining panel portions in the second row being seperable from the panel portions in the third row by means of cuts extending along the second horizontal crease line; and the second panel portions on either side of the central vertical crease line in the third row are each connected by means of a foldable hinge with the corresponding second panel portion in the fourth row, the hinges being defined by a third horizontal crease line between the third and fourth rows, the remaining panel portions in the third row being seperable from the panel portions in the fourth row by means of cuts extending along the third horizontal crease line.

In an embodiment, a cut extends long the central vertical crease to enable separation of the first panel portions in each of the second and third rows from one another, the first panel portions in each of the first and fourth rows being interconnected with one another by means of a foldable hinge and first panel portions on either side of the central vertical crease line in the first row are each connected by means of a foldable hinge with the corresponding first panel portion in the second row, the hinges being defined by a first horizontal crease line between the first and second rows, the remaining panel portions in the first row being seperable from the panel portions in the second row by means of cuts extending along the first horizontal crease line; the second panel portions on either side of the central vertical crease line in the second row are each connected by means of a foldable hinge with the corresponding second panel portion in the third row, the foldable hinges being defined by a second horizontal crease line between the second and third rows; the remaining panel portions in the second row being seperable from the panel portions in the third row by means of cuts extending along the second horizontal crease line; and the first panel portions on either side of the central vertical crease line in the third row are each connected by means of a foldable hinge with the corresponding first panel portion in the fourth row, the hinges being defined by a third horizontal crease line between the third and fourth rows, the remaining panel portions in the third row being seperable from the panel portions in the fourth row by means of cuts extending along the third horizontal crease line.

In an embodiment, a cut extends long the central vertical crease to enable separation of the first panel portions in each of the second and third rows from one another, the first panel portions in each of the first and fourth rows being interconnected with one another by means of a foldable hinge and a second cut extends along a horizontal crease line between the first and second rows where it crosses the innermost columns either side of the central vertical crease line, the second cut separating the first panel portions in the first row on either side of the central vertical crease line from the corresponding first panel portions in the second row, and a third cut extends along a horizontal crease line between the third and fourth rows where it crosses the innermost columns either side of the central vertical crease line, the third cut separating the first panel portions either side of the central vertical crease line in the third row from the corresponding first panel portions in the fourth row.

In an embodiment, the third and any subsequent outer panel portions in the first row on either side of the sheet are separated from the corresponding panel portions in the second row by fourth and fifth cuts extending along the horizontal crease line between the first and second rows; the second and third and any subsequent outer panel portions in the second row on either side of the sheet are separated from the corresponding panel portions in the third row by sixth and seventh cuts extending along the horizontal crease line between the second and third rows; and the third and any subsequent outer panel portions in the fourth row on either side of the sheet are separated from the corresponding panel portions in the third row by eighth and ninth cuts extending along the horizontal crease line between the third and fourth rows.

In an embodiment, a cut extends long the central vertical crease to enable separation of the first panel portions in each of the second and third rows from one another, the first panel portions in each of the first and fourth rows being interconnected with one another by means of a foldable hinge, wherein a second cut extends along a central horizontal crease line between the second and third rows where it crosses the innermost columns either side of the central vertical crease line, the second cut separating the first panel portions in the second row on either side of the central vertical crease line from the corresponding first panel portions in the third row; the second, third and any subsequent outer panel portions in the first row on either said of the central vertical crease line being separated from the corresponding panel portions in the second row by means of third and fourth cuts extending along the horizontal crease line between the first and second rows; the third and any subsequent outer panel portions in the second row on either said of the central vertical crease line being separated from the respective panel portions in the third row by means of fifth and sixth cuts extending along the horizontal crease line between the second and third rows; the second, third and any subsequent outer panel portions in the third row on either said of the central vertical crease line being separated from the respective panel portions in the fourth row by means of seventh and eighth cuts extending along the horizontal crease line between the third and fourth rows.

The blank may be symmetrical about the central vertical crease line. The cuts may be lines of weakness.

All the panel portions may be the same width.

The first and second panel portions in each row may have the same width, the third panel portions being wider than the first and second panel portions.

The first and third panel portions in each row have the same width, the second panel portions being wider than the first and third panel portions.

There may be three, four five or more panel portions in each row on either side of the central vertical crease line to form carton sections having three, four, five or more side walls. In accordance with a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a blank of foldable material for forming a reconfigurable packaging carton substantially as herein defined, with reference to and as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

Detailed Description of the Invention

In order that the invention may be more clearly understood, embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which:

Figures la to le are a series of perspective views of a packaging carton in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention, showing the carton in different configurations ;

Figure 2 is a plan view of a blank for forming the packaging carton of Figure 1, the blank having a first pattern of cuts;

Figures 3 and 4 are a series perspective views illustrating the steps in folding and assembling the blank of Figure 2 to form the packaging container of Figure 1;

Figure 5 is a view similar to that of Figure 2 but illustrating an alternative blank for forming the packaging carton of Figure 1 , the alternative blank having a second pattern of cuts;

Figures 6a to 6e are a series of perspective views of a packaging carton in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention, showing the carton in different configurations;

Figure 7 is a plan view of a blank for forming the packaging carton of Figures 6a to 6e, the blank having a first pattern of cuts; Figure 8 is a view similar to that of Figure 7 but illustrating an alternative blank for forming the packaging carton of Figures 6a to 6e, the alternative blank having a second pattern of cuts;

Figures 9a to 9e are a series of perspective views of a packaging carton in accordance with a third embodiment of the invention, showing the carton in different configurations;

Figure 10 is a plan view of a blank for forming the packaging carton of Figures 9a to 9e, the blank having a first pattern of cuts;

Figure 1 1 is a view similar to that of Figure 10 but illustrating an alternative blank for forming the packaging carton of Figures 9a to 9e, the alternative blank having a second pattern of cuts;

Figure 12 is a cross sectional view of a packaging carton in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the invention in a primary configuration;

Figure 13 is a perspective view of the carton of Figure 12; Figures 14 and 15 are plan views of alternative blanks suitable for forming the carton of Figures 12 and 13, the blank of Figure 14 having a first pattern of cuts and the blank of Figure 15 a second pattern of cuts;

Figure 16 is a cross sectional view of a packaging carton in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the invention showing the carton in a primary configuration; Figure 17 is a perspective view of the carton of Figure 16;

Figure 18 is a perspective view of the carton of Figure 16, showing the carton in an alternative configuration; Figures 19 and 20 are plan views of alternative blanks suitable for forming the carton of Figures 16 to 18, the blank of Figure 19 having a first pattern of cuts and the blank of Figure 20 a second pattern of cuts;

Figure 21 is a cross sectional view of a packaging carton in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the invention showing the carton in a primary configuration;

Figure 22 is a perspective view of the carton of Figure 21;

Figure 23 is a perspective view of the carton of Figure 21, showing the carton in an alternative configuration;

Figures 24 and 25 are plan views of alternative blanks suitable for forming the carton of Figures 21 to 23, the blank of Figure 24 having a first pattern of cuts and the blank of Figure 25 a second pattern of cuts;

Figure 26 is a cross sectional view of a packaging carton in accordance with a seventh embodiment of the invention showing the carton in a primary configuration;

Figure 27 is a perspective view of the carton of Figure 26; Figure 28 is a perspective view of the carton of Figure 26, showing the carton in an alternative configuration; and

Figures 29 and 30 are plan views of alternative blanks suitable for forming the carton of Figures 26 to 28, the blank of Figure 29 having a first pattern of cuts and the blank of Figure 30 a second pattern of cuts. Referring initially to Figures la to le, packaging 10 in accordance with the invention comprises a packaging carton 12 having eight carton sections 14, labelled 14a to 14h in Figure lc. Each of the carton sections 14 defines a hollow prism and is attached to two further of the carton sections 14 by means of hinges 16 along respective edges. The carton 12 is adapted so that the carton sections 14 can be moved into a range of different configurations by pivoting each pair of inter-connected carton sections 14 about their common hinge 16. Referring now to Figures 2 to 4, the carton 12 is formed from a single blank

18 of relatively stiff but foldable material such as cardboard or paperboard or the like. In this embodiment, the carton sections 14 are cubic but, as will be discussed in more detail later, the carton sections 14 can be formed in a range of shapes and may be non- parallelepiped. The relative terms "upper", lower", "vertical", and "horizontal" are used throughout the description and claims in relation to blank 18, and other blanks to be described later, with reference to the blanks in the orientation shown in the drawings. It will be appreciated, however, that the blanks 18 may be used in different orientations and these terms should be construed accordingly. The blank 18 is generally rectangular in shape and is divided into four rows A,

B, C, D by means of three equi-spaced horizontal crease lines 20, 22, 24. The rows will be referred to as a first row A, a second row B, a third row C, and a fourth row D, numbering from the top 26 to the bottom 28 of the sheet as shown.

The term "crease line" as used herein refers to a line about which the blank is folded when the carton is erected. As will be described in detail below, a number of cuts or lines of weakness are formed through the blank along at least some of the crease lines. Accordingly the term "crease line" should be understood as encompassing a line about which the blank is folded but which has regions in which cuts or lines of weakness are formed as well folded sections.

The sheet 18 is divided into two equal halves about a central, vertical crease line 32 extending between the top edge 26 and bottom edge 28 of the sheet. Further vertical crease lines 34 to 44 are spaced apart on either side of the central vertical crease line 32 and divide each row A, B, C, D into eight panel portions 46, four panel portions 46 in each half of the sheet. The four panel portions 46 in each half of each row form the walls of one of the carton sections 14 when the blank is folded and can be considered collectively as a carton section portion of the blank, with the carton section portions on the left-hand side as shown being numbered 48 and the carton section portions on the right-hand side 50. Each carton section portion then can be identified by the number 48 or 50 in combination with the letter A, B, C, D to denote the row.

The panel portions 46 in each carton section portion 48, 50 will be referred to as a first panel portion, a second panel portion and third panel portion and a fourth panel portion respectively counting outwardly from the central vertical cease line. So, for example, in the carton section portion 48 in row A on the left-hand side there are defined a first panel portion identified as 48 Al closest to the central vertical crease line 32, a second panel portion 48A2, a third panel portion 48A3 and a fourth panel portion 48A4. Similarly, in the carton section portion 50 in row A on the right-hand side, there are defined a first panel portion 50A1, a second panel portion 50A2, a third panel portion 50A3, and a fourth panel portion 50A4. The sheet 18 also comprises a tab 52 at either end of each row. Each tab 52 is connected to an outer edge of the outermost panel portion 46 in its respective half of the row by means of a vertical crease line 54. When the blank is erected into a carton, the tabs 52 are folded inwardly and each tab 52 is bonded to an inner surface to the first, innermost panel portion 48A1, 50A1, 48B1, 50B1, 48C1, 50C1, 48D1, 50D1 of its respective carton section portion 48, 50 (e.g. in its half of the row) as shown in Figures 3 and 4. The use of tabs 52 to hold the carton section portions 48, 50 in their folded condition allows for ease of manufacture and assembly.

To allow the carton sections 14 to be re-configured, a number of cuts are formed along the central vertical crease line 32 and along the various horizontal crease lines 20, 22, 24. The cuts are located so that each carton section portion 48A, 48B, 48C, 48D, 50A, 50B, 50C, 50D is connected with only two of the adjacent carton section portions by means of respective hinges 16, each hinge 16 extending along an edge of one of the panel portions 46. The pattern of cuts is configured so that all the carton section portions 48A, 48B, 48C, 48D, 50A, 50B, 50C, 50D remain linked together.

In Figure 2, cuts along the various vertical and horizontally crease lines are denoted by means of a solid line, whilst folds are denoted by dashed lines. The fold lines between adjacent carton section portions 48, 50 form the hinges 16. The cuts may extend fully through the material so that the adjacent panel portions 46 either side are completely separated or they may be lines of weakness, such as perforations, which allow the adjacent panel portions to be easily separated, either during erection of the carton or subsequently. As a further alternative, the cuts may extend fully through the material but small ties may be provided between the adjacent panel portions spaced along the length of the cuts to hold the blank in shape prior to erection but which are very easily breakable to separate the adjacent panel portions. In the following description, the cuts are assumed to be full cuts through the blank and accordingly reference will be made to the cuts separating various of the panel portions. It should be appreciated though that where the cuts are lines of weakness or where ties are present the cuts will enable separation of the various panel portions and the description should be understood as encompassing this option.

In the blank 18 as shown in Figure 2, a first cut 60 is formed along the central vertical crease line 32 where it crosses the second and third rows B, C so that the first panel portions 48B1, 50B1 either side of the central crease line 32 in the second row B and the first panel portions 48B1, 5 OBI either side of the central crease line 32 in the third row C are separated from one another. The first panel portions 48A1, 50A1 in the first row A remain attached to one another along the central vertical crease line 32 to form a foldable hinge 16 between them as do the first panel portions 48D1, 50D1 in the fourth row D.

A second cut 62 extends along the horizontal crease line 20 between the first row A and the second row B where it crosses the innermost columns either side of the central vertical crease line 32. The second cut 62 separates each of the first panel portions 48A1, 50A1 in the first row A from their respective first panel portions 48B1, 50B1 in second row B. Similarly, a third cut 64 extends along the horizontal crease line 24 between the third row C and the fourth row D where it crosses the innermost columns either side of the central vertical crease line 32 to separate each of the first panel portions 48C1, 50C1 in the third row C from its corresponding first panel portion 48D1, 50D1 in the fourth row D. The first 60, second 62 and third 64 cuts form an "I" shape pattern of cuts in the centre of the blank.

Each of the third and fourth panel portions 48A3, 48A4, 50A3, 50A4 in the first row A are separated from the respective third and fourth panel portions 48B3, 48B4, 50B3, 50B4 in the second row A by respective fourth and fifth cuts 66, 68 extending along the horizontal crease line 20 between the first and second rows A, B. Each of the second, third and fourth panel portions 48B2, 48B3, 48B4, 50B2, 50B3, 50B4 in second row B are separated from the respective panel portions 48C2, 48C3, 48C4, 50C2, 50C3, 50C4 in the third row C by sixth and seventh cuts 70, 72 extending along the central horizontal crease line 22 between the second row B and the third row C. Each of the third and fourth panel portions 48C3, 48C4, 50C3, 50C4 in the third row C are separated from the respective third and fourth panel portions 48D3, 48D4, 50D3, 50B4 in the corresponding carton section portions 48D, 50D in the fourth D row by respective eight and ninth cuts 74, 76 extending along the horizontal crease line 24 between the third and fourth rows C, D.

The general pattern of cuts in the blank 18 as shown in Figure 2 in which the first 60, second 62 and third 64 cuts form an "I" shape pattern in the centre of the blank can be considered a first pattern of cuts in a blank 18 for forming a carton in accordance with the invention. In the first pattern, the first panel portions 48A1, 50A1 in row A are interconnected 16 along the central vertical crease line 32 to define a foldable hinge 16 as are the first panel portions 48D1, 50D1 in the fourth row D. The first panel portions 48B1, 50B1; 48C1, 50C1 in each of the second and third rows B, C being separated from one another. On either side of the central crease line 32, the second panel portions 48A2, 48B2 and 50A2, 50B2 in rows A and B remain interconnected along the first horizontal crease line 20 to define a foldable hinge 16, the first panel portions 48B1, 48C1 and 50B1, 50C1 in rows B and C remain attached to one another along second horizontal crease line 22 to define a foldable hinge 16 and the second panel portions 48C2, 48D2 and 50C2, 50D2 in rows C and D remain interconnected along the third horizontal crease line 24 to define a foldable hinge 16. Otherwise, the panel portions in each row A, B, C, D are separated from those in adjacent rows by means of the various cut lines extending along the horizontal crease lines 20, 22, 24.

It will be noted that the left and right hand sides of the blank 18 are mirror images about the central vertical crease line 32. This is true of all the blanks disclosed herein.

Figures 3 and 4 illustrate how the blank 18 is folded to form the carton. The tabs 52 are folded inwardly about the crease line 54 so that they extend generally perpendicularly to the plane of the adjacent outermost panel portion in each row. On either side of the central, vertical crease line 32, the blank is folded in a constant direction along each of the vertical crease lines 34, 36, 38, 40, 42 44 so that each panel portion extends generally perpendicularly relative to its adjacent panel portions and each carton section defines a cube. Each tab 54 is bonded to the inner surface of the innermost panel portion in its carton section. Product pieces can now be introduced into the carton sections. Where the cuts are full cuts, the carton is now fully formed and functional. Where the cuts are lines of weakness or where there are ties, they may be separated prior to folding the blank, after folding and possibly after the product pieces have been introduced. Figure 5 illustrates a second blank 18' which can be used to form the packaging carton 12. The blank 18' is substantially identical to the blank 18 described above except that the pattern of cuts is different. The general pattern of cuts in the second blank 18' can be considered a second pattern of cuts in a blank 18' for forming a carton 12 in accordance with the invention. In the second pattern, there is also a first cut 60 along the central vertical crease line 32 where it extends across the second and third rows B, C as in the first pattern. However, the pattern of horizontal cuts between adjacent rows is differently arranged so that, on either side of the central vertical crease line 32, the first panel portions 48A1, 48B1 and 50A1, 50B1 in rows A and B remain interconnected along the first horizontal crease line 20 to define a foldable hinge 16, the second panel portions 48B2, 48C2 and 50B2, 50C2 in rows B and C remain attached to one another along second horizontal crease line 22 to define a foldable hinge 16 and the first panel portions 48C1, 48D1 and 50C1, 50D1 in rows C and D remain interconnected along the third horizontal crease line 24 to define a foldable hinge 16. Otherwise, the panel portions in each row A, B, C, D are separated from those in adjacent rows by means of various cut lines extending along the horizontal crease lines 20, 22, 24. The horizontal cuts in the second pattern include a second cut 78 extending along the second horizontal crease line 22 between the second and third rows B, C which separates the first panel portions 48B1, 50B1 in the second row B from their corresponding first panel portions 48C1, 50Clin the third row C. The first and second cuts 60, 78 in this embodiment define a cross shape in the middle of the blank 18'. Third and fourth cuts 80, 82 are provided along the first horizontal crease line 20 between the first and second rows A, B to separate the second, third and fourth panel portions 48A2, 48A3, 48A4, 50A2, 50A3, 50A4 in the first row A, from their corresponding panel portions 48B2, 48B3, 48B4, 50B2, 50B3, 50B4in the second row B. Fifth and sixth cuts 84, 86 are provided along the second horizontal crease line 22 between the second and third rows B, C which separate the third and fourth panel portions 48B3, 48B4, 50B3, 50B4 in the second row B from their corresponding panel portions 48C3, 48C4, 50C3, 50C4 in the third row C. Seventh and eighth cuts 88, 90, are provided along the third horizontal crease 24 line between the third and fourth rows C, D and which separate the second, third and fourth panel portions 48C2, 48C3, 48C4, 50C2, 50C3, 50C4 in the third row C from their corresponding panel portions 48D2, 48D3, 48D4, 50D2, 50D3, 50D4 in the fourth row D. In other respects, the blank 18' is constructed in the same manner as blank 18 and is erected to form a packaging carton in the same manner. The second pattern of cuts does not allow the same degree of manipulation in the assembled carton 12 as the first pattern. For example, a carton 12 formed from a blank 18' having the second pattern of cuts can be placed in the configurations illustrated in Figures la to Id, but not in the configuration illustrated in Figure le.

A packaging carton 12 formed from a blank using the second pattern of cuts will not have the same degree of manipulation as one formed using the first

Each carton section 14 has four side walls 91, formed by the panel portions 46 in each of the carton section portions 48 A, 48B, 48C, 48D, 50A, 50B, 50C, 50D in the blanks 18, 18', but is open at either end to form a sleeve within which a product piece 92 is received and retained. The product pieces 92 are received and retained directly in their respective carton sections 14 and may be wrapped, for example in a foil wrapper 94 as illustrated in Figure 1, or un- wrapped. A product piece 92 may be retained in a carton section 14 due to a friction fit or it may be releasably bonded in its carton section by means of an adhesive or the like. The adhesive may be a peelable adhesive such as a cold seal and the amount of adhesive used may selected so that the product piece 92 can be relatively easily removed from its carton section 14 when desired by an end user but is otherwise securely held in position. Where the product piece 92 is wrapped, adhesive may be used to bond the wrapper 94 to the carton section 14.

Packaging 10 in accordance with the invention can be used to package any suitable type product but it is preferred that each carton section 14 contain a single product piece having a shape and size conforming generally to the shape and size of the interior or the carton sections 14. The packaging 10 is ideally suited to packaging food products, and especially confectionery products, that are solid at room temperature but which can be moulded or otherwise shaped into appropriately shaped and sized pieces 92 for location within the carton sections 14. In the present embodiment, each product piece 92 is an individual chocolate piece wrapped in an outer foil. The chocolate pieces 92 are cubic in shape and are dimensioned to be a close fit within the carton sections 14 when wrapped. The carton sections 14 and the product pieces 92 are dimensioned so that each chocolate piece 92 is a "bite size" portion of chocolate intended for consumption in one go once opened. The complete carton 10 contains eight bite size chocolate pieces 92 and so contains an overall amount of chocolate that is broadly equivalent to that of a conventional medium sized chocolate bar. However, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to arrangements in which each carton section contains a single product piece and nor is it essential that the product piece has a shape and size conforming generally to the shape and size of the interior or the carton sections 14 provided that the product piece or pieces can be securely held within a carton section.

Graphics 96, for example in the form of symbols, text, letters, icons, images or the like, may be printed or otherwise applied to some or all of the walls 90 of at least some of the carton sections 14 and/or to any exposed regions of the wrappers 94 when the product pieces are wrapped. The graphics 96 may be arranged so that in at least one configuration of the carton 12, graphics associated with two or more of the carton sections 14 align to form a combined graphic. For example, letters or images may be associated with a number of the carton sections 14 which form a word, logo or picture when the carton sections are arranged in a particular configuration. The graphics 96 could be configured so that different combined graphics are produced when the carton sections 14 are arranged in different configurations. For example, the graphics might combine to form one word or image in one configuration and a different word or image in another configuration. The graphics could be used to convey information about the product or it could be used to form a game or story, to reveal the answer to a question, or as part of a product promotion, say to indicate if a prize has been won.

Figures 6a to 6e illustrate a further embodiment of a carton 112 in accordance with the invention. The carton 1 12 is substantially the same as the carton 12 of the first embodiment except that the carton sections 114 are each shaped as a quadrant of a cylinder. Each of the carton sections 114 is a hollow prism and is attached to two further of the carton sections 114 by means of hinges 16 along respective edges. With this embodiment, the carton sections 114 can be arranged to form a cylindrical prism 198 in a primary configuration, as illustrated in Figure 6a. Only the outer carton 112 is illustrated in these drawings and the drawings of some of the subsequent embodiments. It should be appreciated however that each carton section 114 can be filled with a product piece 92, which may be wrapped or unwrapped, as illustrated in respect of the previous embodiment. Figures 7 and 8 show blanks 118 118'of foldable material for forming the carton 112. The blanks 118, 118' are substantially identical to the blanks 18, 18' respectively except that they are only divided into six columns, so that each carton section portion 48, 50 has only three panel portions 46 for forming the three walls of a carton section. In this embodiment, the second panel portions 48A2, 50A2, 48B2, 50B2, 48C2, 50C2, 48D2, 50D2 are wider than the first and third panel portions in each row to form the longer curved outer walls of the carton sections 114.

The blank 118 in Figure 7 employs the first pattern of cuts described above in which, on either side of the blank, the respective second panel portions 48A2, 48B2 and 50A2, 50B2 in the first and second rows A, B remain attached to define hinges 16, the respective first panel portions 48B1, 48C1 and 50B1, 50C1 in the second and third rows B, C remain attached to define hinges 16, and the respective second panel portions 48C2, 48D2 and 50C2, 50D2 in the third and fourth rows C, D remain attached to define hinges 16. The blank 118' in Figure 8 utilises the second pattern of cuts as described above so that in this embodiment, on either side of the central vertical crease line in the blank, the respective first panel portions 48 Al, 48B1 and 50A1, 50B1 in the first and second rows A, B remain attached to define hinges 16, the respective second panel portions 48B2, 48C2 and 50B2, 50C2 in the second and third rows B, C remain attached to define hinges 16, and the respective first panel portions 48C1, 48D1 and 50C1, 50D1 in the third and fourth rows C, D remain attached to define hinges 16.

Figures 9a to 9e illustrate a still further embodiment of a packaging carton 212 in accordance with the invention in which the carton sections 214 are triangular in cross section. As illustrated in Figure 9c, in a primary configuration, the carton sections 214 can be configured to form a pair of adjacent triangular prisms 298a, 298b. Figures 10 and 11 illustrate blanks 218, 218' for forming the carton 212. Blank 218 utilises the first pattern of cuts as described above whilst blank 218' utilises the second pattern of cuts but otherwise the blanks are identical with each other and similar to those described above. In this embodiment, each carton section portion 48, 50 in the blank has three panel portions, all of which are of equal width, and form carton sections 214 with a cross section in the shape of an equilateral triangle.

Figures 12 and 13 illustrate a further embodiment of a carton 312 in which the carton sections 314 are also triangular in cross section but where the carton is arranged so that the carton sections 314 can be configured to jointly define an equilateral triangular prism 398 in a primary configuration.

Figures 14 and 15 illustrate blanks 318, 318' respectively for forming the carton 312. Blank 318 utilises the first pattern of cuts whilst blank 318' utilises the second pattern of cuts but otherwise the blanks are identical with each other and similar to those described above. In this embodiment, each carton section portion 48, 50 has three panel portions, all of which are all of differing widths so as to form carton sections 314 with a cross section in the shape of an scalene triangle. As seen from Figure 12, the carton sections 314 are dimensioned so that when arranged in a primary configuration, the triangular prism has the shape of an equilateral triangle in total cross section.

Figures 16, 17 and 18 illustrate a further embodiment of a carton 412 in which the carton sections 414 are polygonal and configured so that the carton sections 414 can be arranged to jointly define a hexagonal prism 498 in a primary configuration. Figures 19 and 20 illustrate blanks 418, 418' for forming the carton 412. Blank 418 utilises the first pattern of cuts whilst blank 418' utilises the second pattern of cuts but otherwise the blanks are identical with each other and similar to those described above. Figures 21, 22 and 23 illustrate a further embodiment of a carton 512 in which the carton sections 514 are polygonal and configured so that the carton sections 514 can be arranged to jointly define an octagonal prism 598 in a primary configuration. Figures 24 and 25 illustrate blanks 518, 518' for forming the carton 512. Blank 518 utilises the first pattern of cuts whilst blank 518' utilises the second pattern of cuts but otherwise the blanks are identical with each other and similar to those described above. In this embodiment, the blank is divided into ten columns so that each carton section portion 48, 50 has five panel portions for forming carton sections with five planar side wall portions.

Figures 26, 27 and 28 illustrate a further embodiment of a carton 612 in which the carton sections 614 are polygonal and configured so that the carton sections 614 can be arranged to jointly define a decagonal prism 698 in a primary configuration. Figures 29 and 30 illustrate blanks 618, 618' for forming the carton 612. Blank 618 utilises the first pattern of cuts whilst blank 618' utilises the second pattern of cuts but otherwise the blanks are identical with each other and similar to those described above. In this embodiment, the blank is divided into ten columns so that each carton section portion 48, 50 has five panel portions for forming carton sections with five planar side wall portions. Cartons in accordance with the invention can be produce with a range of differently shaped carton sections. Typically, it is expected that all the carton sections 14 in any given carton 12 will be of the same shape and they will also usually be of the same size and of constant cross section for ease of assembly and packing, though this is not essential. For those cartons that define a prism form in a primary configuration, each of the carton sections will comprise at least two faces which form a right angle relative one another. Preferably, the cross sectional area of each carton section in this case should be no larger than the rectangle/square described by the two right-angled faces to avoid complications in manipulation. Cartons which define a polygonal prism in a primary configuration will typically be based on a combined polygonal prism shape having an even number of sides such as the hexagonal and decagonal prisms in the last two embodiments described above.

Packaging cartons in accordance with the invention not only serve to protect the product in the manner of conventional packaging but the ability to manipulate the carton to form different shapes and/or to create different images from the applied graphics adds significantly to the end user's overall experience. It is expected that packaging cartons in accordance with the present invention will be particularly suited for packaging products that are to be given as a gift and wherein the novelty aspect of the packaging will be seen as representing an additional and attractive facet of the overall product. It should be appreciated that the invention is not limited to packaging for food and confectionery products and that where the product pieces are wrapped, they can be wrapped in any suitable material including but not limited to: metallic foils, paper, polymeric materials, and laminated materials included any of the above in any combination.

The above embodiments are described by way of example only. Many variations are possible without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A reconfigurable packaging carton comprising a plurality of interconnected hollow prismatic carton sections for receiving product, each carton section being connected with two further of the carton sections by means of respective hinges such that the configuration of the carton sections can be varied by pivoting interconnected pairs of the carton sections about a common hinge, each carton section having at least one aperture at one end.

2. A reconfigurable packaging carton as claimed in claim 1, wherein each carton section has an aperture at either of two opposed ends, so as to define a sleeve for receiving product.

3. A reconfigurable packaging carton as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the carton sections are polygonal in cross-section or wherein the carton sections have the shape of a sector of a circle in cross-section.

4. A reconfigurable packaging carton as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the carton sections are non-parallelepiped.

5. A reconfigurable packaging carton as claimed in claim 4, wherein in a primary configuration, the carton sections combine to define a prism.

6. A reconfigurable packaging carton as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the carton sections have the shape of a quadrant of a circle in cross-section and the carton sections combining to define a cylindrical prism when in said primary configuration.

7. A reconfigurable packaging carton as claimed in claim 5, wherein the carton sections are triangular prisms, the carton sections combining to define a triangular prism when in said primary configuration.

8. A reconfigurable packaging carton as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the carton is formed from a single blank of foldable material.

9. A reconfigurable packaging carton as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein product pieces are located in some or all of the carton sections.

10. A reconfigurable packaging carton as claimed in claim 9, wherein the product pieces are directly received and retained within their respective carton sections.

11. A reconfigurable packaging carton as claimed in claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the product pieces are wrapped.

12. A reconfigurable packaging carton as claimed in claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the product pieces are frictionally retained within their respective carton sections.

13. A reconfigurable packaging carton as claimed in claim 11, wherein the wrapped product pieces are bonded to an inner surface of their respective carton sections for retention.

14. A reconfigurable packaging carton as claimed in any one of claims 9 to 13, wherein the product pieces comprises confectionery pieces such as chocolate.

15. A reconfigurable packaging carton as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one graphic (e.g. a symbol, text, letter, icon, image or the like) is associated with at least two or more of the carton sections, the arrangement being such that in at least one configuration of the carton sections, graphics associated with at least two of the carton sections correspond to form a combined graphic.

16. A reconfigurable packaging carton as claimed in claim 15, wherein the carton is configured so that graphics associated with the carton sections combine in different ways in at least two configurations of the carton sections to define a series of different combined graphics.

17. A reconfigurable packaging carton as claimed in claim 15 or claim 16, wherein the at least one graphic associated with any given carton section is provided on a wall of the carton section and/or on an exposed portion of the wrapper of a wrapped product piece retained in the carton section.

18. A blank of foldable material for forming a reconfigurable packaging carton comprising a plurality of interconnected hollow prismatic carton sections for receiving product, each carton section being connected with two further of the carton sections by means of respective hinges such that the configuration of the carton sections can be varied by pivoting interconnected pairs of the carton sections about a common hinge, each carton section having at least one aperture and one end; the blank comprising a sheet of material divided into four rows by means of a plurality of equi-spaced horizontal crease lines, the rows being referred to as first, second, third, and fourth rows counting from an upper edge to a lower edge of the sheet, the sheet also being divided into at least six columns by means of a plurality of vertical crease lines, the vertical crease lines including a central vertical crease line dividing the sheet into two halves, the remaining vertical crease lines being spaced either side of the central vertical crease line so that the vertical crease lines in one half are a mirror image of the vertical crease lines in the other half, the vertical and horizontal crease lines defining at least first, second, and third panel portions on either side of the central vertical crease line in each row, the panel portions being numbered outwardly from the central vertical crease line, the sheet also comprising a tab at either end of each row, each tab being connected with the an outer edge of the outermost panel portion on its respective side of the sheet by means of a vertical fold line.

19. A blank as claimed in claim 18, wherein one or more cuts extend along the central vertical cease between the first panel portions in two of the rows to enable the first panel portions in each of said two rows to be separated from one another, the first panel portions in each of the other two of the rows being interconnected by means of a foldable hinge.

20. A blank as claimed in claim 18 or claim 19, wherein a cut extends long the central vertical crease to enable separation of the first panel portions in each of the second and third rows from one another, the first panel portions in each of the first and fourth rows being interconnected with one another by means of a foldable hinge.

21. A blank as claimed in claim 20, wherein the second panel portions on either side of the central vertical crease line in the first row are each connected by means of a foldable hinge with the corresponding second panel portion in the second row, the hinges being defined by a first horizontal crease line between the first and second rows, the remaining panel portions in the first row being seperable from the panel portions in the second row by means of cuts extending along the first horizontal crease line; the first panel portions on either side of the central vertical crease line in the second row are each connected by means of a foldable hinge with the corresponding first panel portion in the third row, the foldable hinges being defined by a second horizontal crease line between the second and third rows; the remaining panel portions in the second row being seperable from the panel portions in the third row by means of cuts extending along the second horizontal crease line; and the second panel portions on either side of the central vertical crease line in the third row are each connected by means of a foldable hinge with the corresponding second panel portion in the fourth row, the hinges being defined by a third horizontal crease line between the third and fourth rows, the remaining panel portions in the third row being seperable from the panel portions in the fourth row by means of cuts extending along the third horizontal crease line.

22. A blank as claimed in claim 20, wherein the first panel portions on either side of the central vertical crease line in the first row are each connected by means of a foldable hinge with the corresponding first panel portion in the second row, the hinges being defined by a first horizontal crease line between the first and second rows, the remaining panel portions in the first row being seperable from the panel portions in the second row by means of cuts extending along the first horizontal crease line; the second panel portions on either side of the central vertical crease line in the second row are each connected by means of a foldable hinge with the corresponding second panel portion in the third row, the foldable hinges being defined by a second horizontal crease line between the second and third rows; the remaining panel portions in the second row being seperable from the panel portions in the third row by means of cuts extending along the second horizontal crease line; and the first panel portions on either side of the central vertical crease line in the third row are each connected by means of a foldable hinge with the corresponding first panel portion in the fourth row, the hinges being defined by a third horizontal crease line between the third and fourth rows, the remaining panel portions in the third row being seperable from the panel portions in the fourth row by means of cuts extending along the third horizontal crease line.

23. A blank as claimed in claim 20, wherein a second cut extends along a horizontal crease line between the first and second rows where it crosses the innermost columns either side of the central vertical crease line, the second cut separating the first panel portions in the first row on either side of the central vertical crease line from the corresponding first panel portions in the second row, and a third cut extends along a horizontal crease line between the third and fourth rows where it crosses the innermost columns either side of the central vertical crease line, the third cut separating the first panel portions either side of the central vertical crease line in the third row from the corresponding first panel portions in the fourth row.

24. A blank as claimed in claim 21, wherein the third and any subsequent outer panel portions in the first row on either side of the sheet are separated from the corresponding panel portions in the second row by fourth and fifth cuts extending along the horizontal crease line between the first and second rows; the second and third and any subsequent outer panel portions in the second row on either side of the sheet are separated from the corresponding panel portions in the third row by sixth and seventh cuts extending along the horizontal crease line between the second and third rows; and the third and any subsequent outer panel portions in the fourth row on either side of the sheet are separated from the corresponding panel portions in the third row by eighth and ninth cuts extending along the horizontal crease line between the third and fourth rows.

25. A blank as claimed in claim 20, wherein a second cut extends along a central horizontal crease line between the second and third rows where it crosses the innermost columns either side of the central vertical crease line, the second cut separating the first panel portions in the second row on either side of the central vertical crease line from the corresponding first panel portions in the third row; the second, third and any subsequent outer panel portions in the first row on either said of the central vertical crease line being separated from the corresponding panel portions in the second row by means of third and fourth cuts extending along the horizontal crease line between the first and second rows; the third and any subsequent outer panel portions in the second row on either said of the central vertical crease line being separated from the respective panel portions in the third row by means of fifth and sixth cuts extending along the horizontal crease line between the second and third rows; the second, third and any subsequent outer panel portions in the third row on either said of the central vertical crease line being separated from the respective panel portions in the fourth row by means of seventh and eighth cuts extending along the horizontal crease line between the third and fourth rows.